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Twas a Night Like No Other

11/1/2025

Author

Elder Sarah Middleton

This is a 2021 Christmas Testimony, sort of. But it started in November. No, the background actually started over a year earlier. In 2020, COVID-19 arrived in the midwestern USA. The highly communicable disease had been wreaking havoc around the world and both coasts of the US, but here in the Midwest it was, mostly, business as usual until early 2020.

In February or March of 2020 it arrived and businesses and churches were closed, many workers moved to working from home instead of the office, and masks were worn everywhere. People with certain medical conditions were encouraged to avoid contact with anyone that could be sick, and the method of delivering healthcare changed drastically. And, did I say “churches closed”?

Churches closed. As frightening as that statement sounds, it was the best practice. In an effort to protect the “most vulnerable among us”, churches closed. Churches, where people hug and shake hands and greet each other warmly and closely, support each other in the journey and encourage one another, closed. Of course, when everything closed down, most of us thought it would be a few weeks, maybe a month or 2 at most, but certainly not longer than that. What we thought of as a few week hiatus turned into months.

And when November arrived, with no return to meeting in person on the horizon, we faced a Christmas without church services. My husband, Gary, told me he felt strongly the congregation needed an option to celebrate Christmas Eve “together”. He recruited Ruth Humbert and me to help him create an “online” service that could be streamed on Christmas Eve as a way for the congregation to worship together for Christmas. Several in the congregation were enlisted to help and were recorded so their ministry could be included in the service. The service seemed to be well accepted, so in October of 2021 Gary, Ruth and I began discussing the possibility of streaming another Christmas Eve service. We still had a few members who, for a variety of reasons, were not able to return to in-person services, and the need Gary had sensed the year before still existed. So planning began.

We discussed trying to see if Santa and Mrs. Claus would be available to be a part of the service, and decided that if they could, we should have a story for them to read. Ruth said to me, “you should write one” and suggested something along the style of Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore. Unsure of what I would come up with, I began to think of what I could write that would serve the purpose we wished.

I have always loved the image and stories of Santa kneeling at the manger. I know some people find it incongruent to have Santa as a part of the celebration of the birth of Christ, but to me it has always made sense. According to early tradition, the original “Santa” was Saint Nicholas, a bishop in the 4th century. If this is the case, Santa would have worshiped Jesus Christ. Whether he did or not, I see no problem with the idea that Santa could worship God and kneel at the feet of His son. So, with the idea in hand, I began writing. Over the next few weeks, I carried a notebook with me, adding lines, editing rhymes and lines to create rhymes.

Mrs & Santa Claus reading Sarah's book at the Topeka Community of Christ Christmas Eve Online worship Service.

Eventually, I had the story of the birth of Jesus Christ, told by Santa. Santa and Mrs. Claus were able to drop by the church to be recorded for the service, so I took the story to Walgreens and turned it into a photo book (without illustrations or photos) so they could read Twas a Night Like No Other.

Mrs Claus - Elder Linda Houseman
Santa Claus - Elder Woody Houseman

My family, including Santa and Mrs. Claus, encouraged me to publish my story. For Christmas I was gifted books on how to publish children’s books. I was not against the idea, but was unsure. It was not illustrated and I am not gifted in drawing. A couple of family members are, but they were not available to help. I was stymied. Gary, however, solved the problem. Gifted in art and digital art, he illustrated the book for Mother’s Day. Like everything he does, it was fantastic. Completed book in hand, I once again made a trip to Walgreens to create a new photo book, complete with cover and illustrations, to send our grandchildren for Christmas. Santa and Mrs. Claus read the story in a congregation of a different denomination the next December, and again in our own the next, in person this time. I was repeatedly encouraged to publish the book.

Still uncertain exactly how to do that, I was home sick one day in January of 2024 and saw a commercial for Covenant Publishing. Uncharacteristically, I called. By October it was published. The editing process with the publisher was beneficial in making me re-examine how I chose to tell the story and the message it carries. While I think I likely frustrated some editors, I was reminded of the power of, not only the written word, but also of punctuation and capitalization in telling a story and creating emphasis (Yes, I am aware – I just got even more nerdy).

Being naturally shy (I know, hard to believe), especially about what appears to be a personal achievement, it has been hard for me to publicize and market the story. But we are finding there is a ministry and a witness with it. Showing the book to people has sparked some interesting conversations and the opportunity to witness to people and in ways that would have never been possible without it. And what I am coming to understand is that the book is not a personal achievement of mine or Gary’s. Rather, it is a gift from God and a ministry to share. It is His story. And it is a testimony. And I am thankful to be a part of it.

Would you like to purchase a copy of this book?

Purchase online from Amazon by clicking on the button.

Amazon website

Staying true to the traditional story of the birth of Jesus, 'Twas a Night Like No Other adds delightful animals, sweet illustrations, and a surprise storyteller! Melding all elements into the beloved story of the first Christmas, 'Twas a Night Like No Other will leave the hearts of both young and old smiling with that warm and fuzzy feeling of childhood Christmas.
--Sarah Middleton Illustrations designed by Gary Middleton

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What is a Bible Believing Church?

10/1/2025

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

In the diverse landscape of Christianity, you may have come across the term “Bible Believing Church.” This phrase is more than just a label; it signifies a particular approach to faith and worship. But what exactly is a Bible Believing Church, and what distinguishes it from other faith communities?

In this blog post, we'll explore some characteristics of a Bible Believing Church using the Topeka Community of Christ church as an example, which we believe exemplifies all these characteristics.

A Bible Believing Church is one that holds the Bible as the authority in matters of faith and practice. Members of such churches believe that the scriptures are inspired by God and should be the foundation of their beliefs, teachings, and daily living. This perspective influences everything from worship styles to community engagement and personal conduct.

Characteristics of a Bible Believing Church

Scriptural Authority

At the core of a Bible Believing Church is the unwavering belief in the authority of the Bible. This means that teachings, decisions and practices are rooted in scripture.

The church views the Bible not just as a historical document but as the Word of God, relevant and applicable to modern life.

"Continuing Revelation" asserts that divine guidance is ongoing, encouraging members to remain open to new insights and directions from God.

Christianity is centered around the life, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. At its core, Christianity emphasizes love, grace, and redemption, offering a path to a meaningful and purposeful life grounded in faith. The Bible, regarded as the holy scripture of Christians, provides profound insights into these principles, guiding believers in their spiritual journey.

With other Christians, Community of Christ affirms the Bible as the foundational scripture for the church. In addition, Community of Christ uses the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants as scripture.

We do not use these sacred writings to replace the witness of the Bible or improve upon it, but because they confirm its message that Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God. We have heard Christ speak in all three books of scripture, and bear witness that he is “alive forever and ever”.

Scripture’s authority is derived from the model of Christ, who came to be a servant Therefore, the authority of scripture is not the authority to oppress, control, or dominate. If Jesus came to serve, how much more should the books that point to him be treated as a servant of the saving purposes of God.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being.”
John 1:1-3 NRSV

Emphasis on Personal Faith

Bible Believing Churches stress the importance of a personal relationship with God. This involves an individual's commitment to accepting Jesus Christ as their Savior and living according to His teachings.

Scripture provides divine guidance and inspired insight for life when responsibly interpreted and faithfully applied. Scripture helps us believe in Jesus Christ. Its witness guides us to eternal life and enables us to grow spiritually, to transform our lives, and to participate actively in the life and ministry of the church.

We must stand up for what we believe in and spread the Word of God to those who are lost and searching for meaning in their lives. We must have faith in His promises and trust that He will guide us through difficult times.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill," and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.
James 2: 14-17 NRSV

Community Engagement

A Bible Believing Church actively engages with and supports its local community. This may include outreach programs, community service projects, and partnerships with local organizations to address community needs.

"Blessings of Community" highlights the importance of gathering, supporting one another, and working collectively toward common goals.

A Bible-based church community, as demonstrated by the gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizes the importance of community and its role in the spiritual development of individuals. By sharing our lives with others, we create a space where we can be vulnerable and open to God's grace.

“But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like.”
James 1:22-24 NRSV

Commitment to Discipleship

Discipleship is a vital component of a Bible Believing Church. It involves mentoring and teaching individuals to grow in their faith and live out Christian principles in their daily lives.

Being a Christian isn't just about what we believe; it's about how we live. It's a call to embody the teachings of Jesus Christ in our daily actions, choices, and interactions with others.

Disciples are called to grow in their knowledge and understanding of the scriptures so that they may ever increase in love for God, neighbor, and self, uphold the dignity and worth of all persons, and faithfully follow the way of Jesus Christ.

The Community of Christ offers discipleship programs that nurture faith through education and mentorship, helping members to grow spiritually and become active participants in the church's mission.

Scripture is not to be worshiped or idolized. Only God, the Eternal One of whom scripture testifies, is worthy of worship. God’s nature, as revealed in Jesus Christ and affirmed by the Holy Spirit, provides the ultimate standard by which any portion of scripture should be interpreted and applied.
D&C 163:7b

Worship and Praise

Worship in a Bible Believing Church is centered around God and His word. Services are designed to glorify God and provide a space for congregants to express their faith through music, prayer, and reflection.

Worship provides us with a sense of community and connection. It allows us to come together and support one another, both in times of celebration and in times of hardship. Through worship, we are reminded of our shared values and our commitment to living a life that reflects those values.

Worship services at Topeka Community of Christ are meaningful and thought-provoking. The services are designed to inspire and challenge members to grow in their faith and to apply it to their daily lives.

We follow the Revised Common Lectionary for our worship ministry. Each week, we reflect on a passage from one of the Gospels and center our worship experience around it. Some would refer to this as a Traditional Christian Worship format, however our worship format is not prescribed.

Click the button for more information about Topeka Community of Christ Worship Ministry.

Worship with Us

Our Standard of Belief

Radio Sermon about the Bible as Scripture in the (RLDS Church) Community of Christ.

Audio recording from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (now Community of Christ) "Hear Ye Him" radio sermons by Evan A Fry. Although this sermon was broadcast over seventy years ago the message is still relevant today.

A Bible Believing Church is distinguished by its commitment to scriptural authority through the action of personal faith, community engagement, discipleship and meaningful worship. These characteristics are not just abstract ideals but are actively implemented in various ways to create a dynamic and supportive faith community.

What do you think? Please share your comments below.

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Hospitality on our Discipleship Journey

9/1/2025

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

Topeka Community of Christ is an inclusive, affirming Christian Church located in Topeka, Kansas, where visitors are welcome to all services; but do we practice what we proclaim by showing hospitality to our visitors?

Hospitality refers to the relationship between a guest and a host, wherein the host receives the guest with goodwill, including the reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.

A reputation for hospitality means you're known for being kind and welcoming to visitors, which may also mean that you always have a full house during the holidays.
Hospitalitem is a Latin word meaning "friendliness to guests," so it's not hard to see where the word hospitality comes from. Showing hospitality involves making others feel comfortable and welcome in your home and our faith community (church home).

Life as a disciple means that we extend the welcome to all. It is about receiving and serving, as if we are receiving and serving Christ. However, Christian hospitality is much more than stating that Visitors are Welcome.

One of the best-known parables of Jesus regarding hospitality is introduced by a question about the Greatest Commandment: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself."

Then Jesus is asked, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus replies with a story (parable) of the “Good Samaritan” Luke 10:25–37 NRSV

The first example of showing our love for God is not directed within the close community of Christ’s followers but rather showing hospitality to strangers.

Our invitation statement: “We are an inclusive, affirming Christian Church and all are welcome here! We invite you to join us for worship and building community,” is more than just words, it's a commitment to action.

So what might that action be?

Greet Everyone with Warmth and Authenticity

A simple smile and a friendly greeting can make all the difference. Make sure greeters are stationed at entrances to welcome everyone, offer assistance, and answer questions. Encourage members to introduce themselves to newcomers and engage in genuine conversation, helping visitors feel seen and appreciated from the moment they arrive. Many congregations are finding engaging in active hospitality to be necessary to maintain their very existence as a congregation

Provide Clear Information and Guidance

Navigating a new church can be overwhelming. Offer clear signage, printed materials, or a welcome table with information about service times, children’s programs, and upcoming events. Consider having volunteers available to guide visitors to classrooms, restrooms, or fellowship areas, ensuring no one feels lost or out of place.

We know that finding a church home and getting connected with the congregation can be a challenge. This is why you will find a “Plan A Visit” link, at the bottom of any page this website.

Foster an Inclusive and Respectful Atmosphere

Emphasize that all are welcome, regardless of background, beliefs or life circumstances. Topeka Community of Christ highlights the importance of respecting each person’s faith journey and encourages questions. Create opportunities for open dialogue and let visitors know they are free to participate as much or as little as they feel comfortable.

Invite Visitors to Social and Community Activities

Extend personal invitations to social activities, potlucks, or small group gatherings. These informal settings are perfect for building relationships and helping newcomers connect with others. Make sure to introduce visitors to members with similar interests or life stages, fostering a sense of belonging.

Topeka congregation Pot Luck Dinner.

Topeka congregation Easter Egg Hunt.

Topeka congregation free Turkey Bingo activity.

Follow Up with Kindness

After their visit, reach out with a friendly note, text message, email or phone call thanking them for coming. Offer to answer any questions and invite them back. This thoughtful gesture shows that you genuinely care about their experience and are eager to welcome them into your community.

“Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
Hebrews 13:1-2 NIV

A welcoming church is built on intentional hospitality, respect and a commitment to loving others as Christ loves us. By greeting visitors warmly, providing clear information, fostering inclusivity, inviting participation, and following up with kindness, our church can become a place where everyone feels at home. When we open our hearts and doors, we create space for meaningful connections and spiritual growth.

“Open your hearts and feel the yearnings of your brothers and sisters who are lonely, despised, fearful, neglected, unloved. Reach out in understanding, clasp their hands, and invite all to share in the blessings of community created in the name of the One who suffered on behalf of all. Do not be fearful of one another. Respect each life journey, even in its brokenness and uncertainty, for each person has walked alone at times. Be ready to listen and slow to criticize, lest judgments be unrighteous and unredemptive.”
D&C 161:3a-b

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Is Sunday School still relevant today?

8/1/2025

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

In the ever-evolving landscape of religious education for children and youth, the question arises: Is Sunday School still relevant today?

To answer this, let's explore two models of providing Christian Education to children and youth. Sunday School - the traditional graded classroom model and the small group Student Ministry model.

"Let the educational and community development endeavors of the church equip people of all ages to carry the ethics of Christ’s peace into all arenas of life. Prepare new generations of disciples to bring fresh vision to bear on the perplexing problems of poverty, disease, war, and environmental deterioration. Their contributions will be multiplied if their hearts are focused on God’s will for creation."
D&C 163:4c

The traditional graded Sunday School classroom model, utilized in many churches, has been around for centuries. This model is structured much like a regular school, with children divided into classes based on their age or grade level. Each class is taught by a teacher who imparts Christian education tailored to the children's developmental stage. One of the main benefits of this model is its structured approach. Children learn in a systematic manner, with lessons building on each other week after week. This model also allows for age-appropriate teaching, ensuring that the content is suitable for the child's understanding.

About 30 years ago the Topeka Congregation remodeled their church home with the addition of Sunday school classroms.

Topeka CofChrist Average
Youth Sunday School Attendance

Nursery 1
Pre-school/Kindergarten 1
Primary 2
Junior 0
Junior High/Sr High 1

“Be not overly concerned with method as you go forth to witness in my name. There are many techniques for proclaiming my word which may be used as needs and circumstances dictate.”
D&C 155:7

The group Student Ministry model is a more recent development for providing Christian education to youth. This model brings together children of various ages for a shared learning experience. The teaching is often done by a group of leaders, and the focus is on promoting a sense of community among the children. The group student ministry model fosters relationships across age groups. Older children often take on mentorship roles, helping their younger peers understand the lessons. This model also encourages active participation, with children often engaging in group discussions, role-plays, songs and other interactive activities.

Both models have their strengths and can be effective in different contexts. The traditional graded classroom model offers a structured, systematic approach to learning, while the group student ministry model fosters a sense of community and active participation. The choice between the two often depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the church and its children.

"The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."
Matthew 9:37-38 NRSV

Like many churches today, finding sufficient numbers of qualified disciples (teachers) to provide graded Sunday school is a big problem. Such a problem persists in my own congregation. To effectively utilize this methodology, we need teachers for Nursery, Pre-School-Kindergarten, Primary (grades 1-3), Juniors/Middle School (grades 4-5), Junior High (grades 6-8) and Senior High (Grades 9-12). We usually have sufficient teachers to meet the needs of our regular attenders, which does not include all the above age groups.

What happens when a new family shows up at our church and we don’t have staffed Sunday school classes to meet the needs of their children?

Children's Focus Moment from a Topeka CofChrist congregation worship service.

In addition, our denomination produces excellent youth focus moments which many congregations utilize in their Sunday worship service. The Topeka Congregation utilizes these focus moments in our worship, and they are not only enjoyed by the children, but the adults as well. However, our denomination has not produced graded Sunday school materials for several years. I am not being critical of my denomination because I believe the demand for such materials is very low and would not justify the expenditure of resources to produce them.

Christian education for children and youth remains a relevant and vital part of our ministry. It continues to play a crucial role in imparting Jesus' teachings to the younger generation, fostering a sense of community, and nurturing their spiritual growth. If we continue to utilize the traditional graded classroom model, but don’t have sufficient staff and resources to provide this ministry to all children, maybe it’s time to consider something different.

How does your congregation address this issue? Please leave a comment below.

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Embarking on a Discipleship Journey

7/1/2025

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Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

Embarking on a discipleship journey is a profound and deeply personal experience. It calls us to transform our lives, inviting us to grow closer to the Divine and to embody the teachings of Christ in our daily actions. This journey is not just a solitary path; it is a communal endeavor that we undertake alongside others who share our commitment.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, how can we move forward on this path with faith, determination, and joy?

My Spirit is reaching out to numerous souls even now and there are many who will respond if you, my people, will bear affirmative testimony of my love and my desires for all to come unto me. D&C 153:9b

Embracing the Call

The call to discipleship is a call to action. As highlighted in Doctrine and Covenants 153:9b, the Spirit is actively reaching out to souls, urging them to respond to the love and desires of Christ. This scripture reminds us that while the journey may not always be easy, we are not alone. The Spirit accompanies us, guiding us through challenges and encouraging us to bear witness to the transformative power of Christ's love.

The Power of Affirmative Testimony

Our testimonies are powerful tools in our discipleship journey. By sharing our personal experiences and the impact of faith in our lives, we can inspire others to embark on their own spiritual paths. This is not merely about words; it is about living our faith authentically and consistently. When others see the peace and joy that faith brings into our lives, they are more likely to be drawn to explore the path of discipleship themselves.

Do not be discouraged. You have not been promised an easy path, but you have been assured that the Spirit that calls you will also accompany you. That Spirit is even now touching alive the souls of those who feel the passion of discipleship burning deeply within. Many others will respond if you are persistent in your witness and diligent in your mission to the world. D&C 162:3

Persistence in Witnessing

Doctrine and Covenants 162:3 emphasizes the importance of persistence in our mission. Discipleship requires ongoing dedication and a willingness to share our faith, even when the path is difficult. It is through our steadfast witness that others may come to feel the Spirit's call.

The Role of our Faith Community

Our Faith Community plays a vital role in sustaining us on our discipleship journey. Being part of a community of believers provides support, encouragement, and accountability. It allows us to share our struggles and triumphs and to learn from one another. In this way, our communal journey becomes a tapestry of shared experiences and collective growth.

Key Components of a Supportive Faith Community

Shared Values: A common foundation of beliefs and commitments, such as Community of Christ Enduring Principles.

Mutual Encouragement: Supporting and uplifting each other in times of need.

Collective Worship: Opportunities to come together in prayer and reflection

Service Opportunities: Engaging together in acts of service that reflect our shared mission.

The Spirit of the One you follow is the spirit of love and peace. That Spirit seeks to abide in the hearts of those who would embrace its call and live its message. The path will not always be easy, the choices will not always be clear, but the cause is sure and the Spirit will bear witness to the truth, and those who live the truth will know the hope and the joy of discipleship in the community of Christ. Amen. D&C 161:7

The Spirit of Love and Peace

As we follow the path of discipleship, Doctrine and Covenants 161:7 assures us that the Spirit of the One we follow is a spirit of love and peace. This Spirit seeks to dwell in our hearts, guiding our actions and decisions. While the path may present challenges, the assurance of the Spirit's presence provides comfort and direction.

Navigating Uncertainty

The journey will not always be clear-cut, and decisions may sometimes be difficult. Yet, it is in these moments of uncertainty that our faith can grow stronger. By trusting in the Spirit, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that we are part of a greater purpose.

Strategies for Navigating Challenges

Prayer and Reflection: Regularly seek guidance through prayer and meditation.

Scripture Study: Immerse yourself in the teachings of Christ for insight and inspiration.

Seek Counsel: Don't hesitate to seek advice from trusted mentors and spiritual leaders.

Remain Open: Be receptive to new experiences and the nudging of the Holy Spirit that may guide your path.

Through Spiritual Practice we learn to listen for God’s Spirit and discern invitations to share God’s love. As we practice, we grow in our discipleship and create a fuller life. When we respond to God's nudging, amazing things can happen! Visit our Spiritual Practice Resource page for additional information.

Spiritual Practices

The Joy of Discipleship

The journey of discipleship is one filled with hope and joy. As we live out the truth of the gospel, we come to know the deep satisfaction that comes from aligning our lives with Christ's teachings. This joy is not just for ourselves; it is meant to be shared with others, cultivating a sense of belonging and purpose within our communities.

Witnessing Transformation

One of the most rewarding aspects of discipleship is witnessing the transformation in ourselves and others. The Spirit works in mysterious ways, often leading us to unexpected places and people. By staying open to these experiences, we can fully embrace the joy of discipleship.

Moving forward on our discipleship journey requires faith, perseverance, and a commitment to living out the teachings of Christ. It is a journey rich with challenges and rewards, calling us to be persistent in our witness and diligent in our mission. As we walk this path, let us remember the assurance that the Spirit of love and peace is with us, guiding our steps and inspiring others to join us.

I preached a sermon reflecting on the Holy Spirit guiding us on our discipleship journey; at the Topeka Community of Christ congregation on March 2, 2025. I invite you to watch a recording of this message via our Worship livestream library.

TCC Livestream Library

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